5 Popular Treatments from Restorative Dentists

Restorative dentists help patients regain their oral health and function by addressing damaged, decayed, or missing teeth. Through advanced techniques and personalized care, these dentists provide solutions that can also improve the aesthetics of a smile. Here are five popular treatments commonly offered by restorative dentists that can transform oral health and restore smiles.

1. Dental fillings

Dental fillings are one of the most common treatments restorative dentists perform for patients of all ages. They repair teeth affected by cavities or minor damage. The process involves removing the decayed portion of the tooth and filling the space with materials such as composite resin or porcelain, which matches the natural tooth color. This treatment restores the tooth's function, prevents further decay, and strengthens its structure.

2. Dental crowns

Restorative dentists may recommend dental crowns for damage too extensive for a dental filling to repair. Crowns are custom-made caps that completely engulf the visible portion of a tooth. They restore the tooth's shape, size, and strength while protecting it from further harm.

Crowns often comprise durable materials like porcelain or ceramic. Like dental fillings, the restorative can use these materials to mimic the appearance and color of natural teeth. Further, this treatment is especially beneficial for teeth that have undergone root canal therapy or have large fillings.

3. Dental bridges

Moving away from damaged teeth, restorative dentists may recommend a dental bridge for one to four consecutively missing teeth. The dental bridge design comprises false teeth, also called pontics, which anchor to the adjacent teeth, also called the abutment teeth. This treatment not only improves the smile's aesthetic but also restores the ability to chew and speak properly. Further, by filling gaps, bridges prevent the neighboring teeth from shifting out of alignment, preserving the overall structure of the mouth.

4. Dentures

Dentures reign as the most popular tooth replacement option for patients with multiple missing teeth. They are custom-made to fit comfortably in the patient's mouth, restoring function and appearance. The restorative dentist will recommend partial dentures if there are remaining natural teeth, while complete dentures replace all teeth in the upper or lower jaw. Note that both options are removable but require different ways of being secured in the mouth, such as metal clasps or dental adhesives.

5. Dental implants

For a more permanent tooth replacement option, the restorative dentist may recommend dental implants. An implant consists of a titanium post that the dentist must surgically insert into the patient's jawbone. This post will serve as artificial tooth roots. On top of the post sits an abutment that acts as an anchor for a dental restoration that mimics the look and durability of natural teeth. Restorations can include a crown, bridge, or denture.